At first glance, Windows 8.1 is a shocking departure from the familiar. However, with IT support ending for some of the more common (and now older) Windows OS systems, it’s time to make the transition. If your business is making the transition from old Windows OS systems, the following tips will help you and your employees become more comfortable with using Windows 8.1.
The first thing you’ll notice is the Start screen. The Start screen appears as soon as you log in and is designed to replace the old Start menu. The Start screen presents the applications and tasks on your computer as a set of floating windows, or “tiles,” which can be clicked to activate the corresponding task. You can also click and hold on a tile to move it. You can perform additional actions on a task by right-clicking it. To view a full list of installed applications, click on the circled arrow in the bottom-left corner. Once you’re finished, click on the Desktop tile to return to a traditional Windows desktop.
The desktop remains similar to previous versions of Windows. You can add folders, icons and files to the desktop by clicking and dragging them from the file manager. You can add applications to the taskbar by right-clicking the application in the Start screen and selecting “Pin to taskbar.” You can also change the theme and wallpaper of your desktop by right-clicking an empty spot on the current wallpaper and selecting “Personalize.”
Windows 8 also introduces a new type of program: the app. Like smartphone apps, Windows 8 apps are full-screen programs designed for ease of use. They run separately from the desktop and do not appear in the list of open windows (in many ways, the desktop is treated as a separate app). To switch between apps, move the mouse cursor to the top-left corner of the screen.
Finally, Windows 8 provides a quick-access feature called the Charms Bar, which can be accessed by moving your mouse cursor to the bottom-right of the screen. Several shortcuts called “charms” will appear, allowing you to open the Start screen, search, view connected devices and shut down your computer.
The above are just a few highlights to the new Windows 8 OS. If you and your business are upgrading your technology and are seeking other hints for streamlining your business functions, call 760-650-3300 and speak to one of our expert IT consultants for San Diego businesses. Locally owned and operated, we work with businesses throughout the San Diego area and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about your current technologies.